The world is becoming more data-driven every day. Whether you're in marketing, healthcare, finance or even education, data is at the core of decision-making. But what if you're interested in this field — and don’t have a technical degree? The good news is, you don't need a computer science background or a formal data science degree to jump into the world of data analytics.

Here’s a guide on how to get started in data analytics, enhance your skills for your current role and show how it can make a tangible difference in any industry. Plus, we'll highlight how our Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate can help you level up your skills and add immense value to your current work. Or, if you're ready for a career pivot, it provides the foundation you need to launch a new path in data analytics.

Why data analytics? 

Data is everywhere, and businesses need professionals who can sift through vast amounts of information to identify insights, trends and patterns. However, data analytics isn’t just about becoming a "data analyst." It’s about using tools and techniques to drive better decisions and outcomes — in any role or industry.

Here are just a few examples of how data analytics can add value:

  • Marketing: Understand customer behavior, predict trends and optimize campaigns.
  • Finance: Analyze reports to offer strategic insights and make data-driven decisions.
  • HR: Improve hiring, retention and engagement by identifying patterns in workforce data.
  • Operations: Boost efficiency and productivity through performance analysis.

No matter where you are, the skills of analyzing, visualizing and interpreting data are more important than ever. And it’s not necessary to leave your current role or industry to do it — you can enhance data analytics skills in your current role and boost your contribution to your organization.

Step 1: Identify how data analytics can add value to your current role 

The first step in starting a career in data analytics, or simply enhancing your skills, is understanding how it can apply to what you already do. Data is a universal tool across industries, and many skills are transferable. 

Start by looking at your day-to-day work and identifying where data already exists — and where better insights could lead to better decisions. 

Ask yourself:

  • What types of reports, dashboards, or performance metrics do I use?
  • Where are there gaps in the data or areas I rely on guesswork?
  • What challenges could be solved with clearer insights?

Once you spot these opportunities, you’ll start to see how data analytics can elevate your impact — without needing to change jobs or industries.

The beauty of upskilling in data analytics is that you can add value to your current role without having to leave your job or industry. You’ll become the go-to person who turns data into actionable strategies, giving you a competitive edge in your current field.

Step 2: Start with the basics 

While a technical degree might seem like a roadblock, it’s not a necessity. You can start by learning the fundamentals of data analytics that apply to any role. You don’t need to be an expert coder, but a solid understanding of data visualization tools, SQL, and basic statistical concepts will get you far.

  • Data Visualization Tools (like Tableau): Learn how to create dashboards and visual reports that help non-technical stakeholders understand complex data.
  • SQL: This programming language helps you access and manipulate large datasets.
  • Statistics: Basic statistics are crucial for understanding data trends, averages, distributions, and more.
  • Python (Optional): Python is a highly versatile programming language for more advanced analytics tasks, but it's not a must-have for beginners.

Step 3: Leverage online learning and upskilling programs 

The fastest way to build confidence in your skills is through hands-on learning — and that’s exactly what our program delivers.

The Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate from ASU CareerCatalyst is designed with working adults in mind. You’ll gain real-world experience using tools like Tableau, SQL, and Python, learning how to collect, analyze and visualize data in ways that drive impact. Plus, you can immediately apply these skills to your current role, adding more value to your organization without needing a technical degree.

Step 4: Put your skills into practice 

Once you've completed your online learning or started your certification journey, the real fun begins: putting your skills into practice. Look for ways to apply what you've learned directly to your current work.

For example:

  • Create a dashboard to track key performance indicators (KPIs) for your team or department.
  • Use SQL to access and manipulate data for reporting or forecasting.
  • Build a data story that provides clear insights for decision-makers in your organization.

By using your new skills on real-world data, you not only build your confidence but also demonstrate your growing value to the company.

Step 5: Show the value to your employer 

Once you've started practicing your skills, it’s time to show how your data analytics capabilities can benefit your company. This is where effective communication comes in. Being able to not just analyze the data but present it in an easy-to-understand format will set you apart.

If you can present a data-driven recommendation or solution that helps improve performance, save costs or streamline processes, you’ll become indispensable. The more you contribute to solving real-world business problems, the more your company will recognize the value of your new data skills.

Step 6: Explore new opportunities (if you’re ready for a full career pivot) 

If you fall in love with data analytics and decide you want to make a full career pivot, you’re in a great spot. Your new skills can open doors in industries like healthcare, finance, technology, marketing, education and beyond.

Here’s where to start your job search:

  • LinkedIn – Filter by entry-level data analyst roles or business intelligence positions.
  • Industry-specific job boards – Sites like Dice (tech-focused), Mediabistro (marketing/data roles) or Hired.
  • Company career pages – Target companies you admire and look for analytics, reporting, or business intelligence roles.
  • Networking groups – Join local or virtual analytics meetups, LinkedIn groups or alumni networks. Many jobs are filled through connections!

And remember — many employers value real-world skills. Completing a program like the ASU CareerCatalyst Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate gives you project-based experience you can showcase on your resume and in interviews.

How a Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate can help you grow

You don’t need a technical degree to start a career in data analytics — or to make a major impact in your current role. The ASU CareerCatalyst Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate is designed for busy professionals who want real-world skills they can apply immediately.

Through hands-on training and real-world projects, you’ll learn how to collect, analyze, and visualize data to drive smarter decisions and solve real business challenges. Whether you're in marketing, finance, operations or another field, this certificate will help you confidently integrate data into your daily work and deliver stronger results for your team.

Plus, our flexible online learning format makes it easy to upskill on your schedule — without pausing your career or life.

By mastering tools like Tableau, SQL and data storytelling, you’ll bring real value to your team, expand your opportunities and stand out in a data-driven workforce.

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Explore the Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate today and start building the skills employers are looking for!